On Tuesday, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation debuted a new transit information hotline.  The hotline will give updates on any interruptions that may occur in Tram, bridge, or Red Bus service.  We welcome everyone to call 212-308-6608 to try this new service.

The message will be updated by 10:00 every weekday morning.  The message on Friday will cover all weekend changes.  More frequent updates will be made if they are necessary.

This service came about at the request of several members of the community.  We determined that it was possible to have a line dedicated to this phone and spent several days testing the system.  It is now up and running, and we can’t wait for everyone to use it!

I am getting continuous updates from the Trust for Public Land about the input that they are receiving from everyone regarding Southpoint.  As they speak to more and more people, the level of excitement rises.  I want to thank everyone to whom they have spoken for their contributions.  The Trust for Public Land says that they have gathered a lot of great information and ideas from everyone they met.  I share their enthusiasm and can’t wait to see the proposed plans that they will put forth within the next (approximately) six months.

As the research continues, it is fascinating to learn of all of the different plans that have been submitted over the years for that space.  It has one of the most beautiful and commanding views in the entire City, and I fully understand everyone’s desire to make sure that any plans “get it right.”  I am confident that the Trust for Public Land will be able to do that.  I hope that one summer in the not-too-distant future we can all enjoy the results of their hard work.

For now, though, Southpoint still remains the best place to view the fireworks display on July 4.  We will have more information shortly about ticket sales for this great event.  It is going to be my first July 4 on Roosevelt Island and, from what everybody tells me, it is a spectacular event.  I look forward to seeing you there!

Thanks to Doryne Isley and Charlie DeFino, another Roosevelt Island summer event is going to be here soon.  Roosevelt Island Day is on June 12 and, with the assistance of the MTA, RIOC will have MetroCard holders available at the event.  We encourage everybody to get a holder, buy a card, and enjoy the incredible view from the Tram.  The transition to the MetroCard has made things easier for many Island residents, workers, and visitors.  I am thrilled by the results, and will look to make other improvements in the future.

One small improvement that we are working on is the renovation of the Public Safety office. Within the next few weeks we hope to turn it into a much more inviting and welcoming place. Please have a bit of patience if it gets worse before it gets better.  With painting and floor work being done, things may be slightly out of place for a few days.

Enjoy the beautiful weather and the Memorial Day holiday!